The Woman Who Built a Book-Lover’s Haven: How StoryGraph is Challenging Goodreads

For book lovers who’ve grown weary of Amazon-owned Goodreads, Nadia Odunayo has become an unexpected hero. The software engineer and book enthusiast didn’t set out to create a rival to the world’s biggest reading platform—but StoryGraph has quickly become just that. Recently, she spoke to The Guardian.

What started as a small side project has exploded into a reader-favorite alternative to Goodreads, offering users personalized book recommendations, in-depth tracking tools, and a drama-free space to connect over literature. And best of all? It’s not owned by Amazon.

A New Chapter in Book Tracking

Odunayo, a London-based developer, initially envisioned StoryGraph as a companion app to Goodreads. But as she built it out, she realized there was an opportunity for something bigger—a platform designed by and for passionate readers.

Unlike Goodreads, StoryGraph doesn’t rely on algorithms that favor mainstream bestsellers. Instead, it analyzes users’ reading habits and preferences to offer recommendations based on mood, pacing, and themes—something bookworms have been craving.

And people have taken notice. As of 2025, StoryGraph boasts over 3.8 million active users, many of whom have officially ditched Goodreads.

Why Are Readers Jumping Ship?

Odunayo believes it comes down to three key reasons:

1️⃣ Better Data & Tracking – StoryGraph offers detailed reading stats and lets users filter books by themes, emotions, and pacing.
2️⃣ No Amazon Influence – Many readers feel uneasy about their book data being tied to a massive corporation.
3️⃣ A Safe, Troll-Free Community – Unlike Goodreads, StoryGraph eliminates toxic review culture by disabling comments on reviews, preventing author harassment.

“I think the number one thing, if people are comparing us with Goodreads, is that a lot of people do go: ‘It’s just not owned by Amazon,’” Odunayo explains.

A Future Free from Corporate Takeovers

Goodreads has been criticized for poor moderation, outdated design, and a lack of meaningful innovation since Amazon’s acquisition. But what happens if Amazon tries to buy out StoryGraph?

“That’s not something we’re interested in,” Odunayo states firmly. “We built this company from the ground up with zero outside investment. This is our life’s work.”

And her passion for books is clear. While running one of the fastest-growing reading platforms, Odunayo has actually increased her own reading habits—devouring up to 80 books a year.

For now, StoryGraph is thriving as the indie disruptor in a space long dominated by a tech giant. With its rapid growth and fiercely loyal user base, the platform is proving that when it comes to reading, people want a choice—and they’re choosing StoryGraph.